A Little Background
My advanced riding started in 1985 when I became the ‘village bobby’ and was instructed on how to ride ‘the system’, even with ‘L’ plates on, before moving to the BMW R80RT. Then in 1999 I undertook the RoSPA Test achieving a Gold pass and this was swiftly followed by joining EKAM to complete my advanced rider course and test. My observer was Mark Andrews.
Becoming an observer followed and then Chief Observer of EKAM for three years. During the latter stages of this tenure the IAM introduced the current IMI National Observer programme and I was asked if I would like to become involved by the then Regional Manager Jon Taylor. Numerous sessions in Wales and around the Surrey countryside followed before I was appointed as National Observer Assessor (NOA).
As I couldn’t ‘observe’ anymore due to this role, becoming an Examiner was a natural step which still kept me involved with ‘new associates’ and safer motorcyclists. I am also a Masters Mentor and Skills Day Instructor mostly at Thruxton.
I average 12-15000 miles a year on the bike, a mixture of NOA and examiner work and touring the UK and Europe with the wife.
Thoughts on the Test
Common Causes of Failure at Test? I do not offer any common cause for those that do not attain the standard to pass their test on test day. Some are nervous and examiners can make allowance for this provided the ride is safe and systematic. Not being systematic or having poor advanced rider theory knowledge is also an issue. It makes the examiners job more difficult delivering unexpected/unwanted result when they reply ‘my observer said I was good enough to get a F1RST’!
System Weaknesses. The biggest common system weakness is getting gear and brake in the correct order, all the time. Associates have been known to change gear when slowing the bike and then brake, because they haven’t got the speed phase correct in the first place - that could be down to poor observation, anticipation and/or planning. Its back to basics ‘Brakes are for slowing - Gears for going’. Not necessarily a system weakness but knowledge - when you ask an associate what is the System of Motorcycle Control or what are the principles of cornering and they stare back at you as if you are speaking a foreign language, doesn’t always bode well.
What makes a good test route? A good test route for people in Kent should include all types of road with varying speed limit and road surface condition with varying views. Part Urban and part Rural. Some areas of the UK do not have motorways or major roads like Kent so allowances have to be made.
Maintaining standards. Good advanced riders should be able to critique themselves during and after each ride to hopefully prevent post test regression. All IAM Groups in the South East offer rides to cover ‘Am I still advanced’ scenarios. I offer my Masters candidates 6 - 8 month check rides if they want to check they are still riding that Masters level. Peterborough and Winchester training weekends are great ways to maintain and expand your skill level.
As an Examiner/NOA I have my riding and assessing ability checked by the Area Service Delivery Manager on a regular basis.
Things to consider when preparing for Test
- (Observers) Do not tell associates what the result of their test should be, i.e. your good enough to get a F1RST - leave that to the examiner to decide.
- Always ensure they are test ready and have had a check ride with the Chief Observer or designated person, so any small issues can be resolved.
- Give associates development plans throughout their time with you to enhance their knowledge of Highway Code and Rider Logbook contents.
- Are your associates aware I will be assessing them on the competencies within the logbook?